GMB Campaign Secures Major Change to HC-One Sponsorship Policy
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GMB has welcomed HC-One's announcement that it is significantly widening eligibility for visa sponsorship from 1 August following sustained campaigning and intervention by the union on behalf of members.
The revised policy means that eligible Care Assistants, Senior Care Assistants and Nurses will now be considered for sponsorship after just three months' service in a permanent role. This replaces a far more restrictive approach that had left many workers facing uncertainty about their future.
The change follows months of engagement by GMB after members raised concerns about sponsorship delays, changing eligibility requirements and the impact these issues were having on their ability to continue living and working in the UK.
GMB challenged HC-One's approach directly, including proposals that would have required many workers to complete two years' service before becoming eligible for sponsorship. The union made clear that such restrictions were unfair, unreasonable and risked denying sponsorship opportunities to dedicated care workers despite them meeting Home Office salary requirements.
Alongside direct engagement with the employer, GMB also raised members' concerns with government and key stakeholders, ensuring workers' experiences and concerns were heard at every level. Throughout this process, GMB consistently argued for a fairer and more accessible approach to sponsorship for care workers.
HC-One's announcement is a significant step forward and a welcome victory for collective action. It demonstrates what can be achieved when workers come together through their union to raise concerns, challenge unfair policies and campaign for change.
While GMB recognises that some members may continue to face challenges under the revised criteria, this outcome represents a meaningful improvement for many workers and their families, providing greater certainty about their future.
GMB will continue to monitor the implementation of the new policy, support members through the sponsorship process and challenge any barriers that remain.
Natalie Grayson, GMB National Officer, said:
"This is a significant and welcome change by HC-One and one that follows sustained campaigning by GMB members and representatives.”
"Many workers told us they were deeply concerned about sponsorship delays, changing eligibility requirements and what this meant for their future. GMB listened to those concerns and took them directly to the company and other key stakeholders."
"The decision to reduce the service requirement to three months and extend eligibility to a much wider group of workers is a positive outcome for our members."
This demonstrates the strength of collective action. When workers organise and speak with one voice through their union, they can secure real improvements in their workplaces.
GMB will continue to work with members and HC-One to ensure these changes are implemented fairly and to press for further progress where necessary.
